A Coordinated Entry System (CES) is a comprehensive approach used to address and manage homelessness by creating a centralized, organized, and standardized system for individuals and families seeking housing and supportive services.

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) developed the coordinated entry system and process to ensure that all people experiencing a housing crisis have fair and equal access to be assessed, referred, and connected to housing assistance based on their strengths and needs.

HUD asks communities to “strategically allocate their current resources and identify the need for additional resources” and to operate person-centered coordinated entry systems that “prioritizes people who are most in need of assistance”.